Mexico. The government of Mexico City has allocated millions of pesos for the expansion of lines 9 and 12 of the Metro, seeking to offer in 2018 new transfer routes for its millions of users. However, without the previous expansion and modernization of the system, the Metro could face multiple failures in the daily service of its 12 lines.
According to Schneider Electric, in recent months it has been proven that it is essential that the Metro adopt new digitalization and automation technologies to act preventively and reactively in the face of elements such as current variations, torrential rains, accidents and other potential risks.
In this context, the company proposes six main elements that need to be addressed for the transformation of the Mexico City Metro into a public service that provides safe, comfortable and timely trips for its users:
1. Monitoring: If we take into account that information is one of the most valuable resources, having monitoring systems in metro stations becomes a key tool. This type of technology allows to know the dynamics of the users to control the infrastructure and guarantee an optimal service during peak hours, managing from resources such as the number of active wagons to the power supply to avoid variations and unexpected power cuts.
2. Signage: One of the most distinctive elements of the modernization of the Metro is the renovation of signaling systems, including screens with information on schedules, televisions inside trains and access announcements at stations. Keeping users properly informed speeds up the mobility of people in their departure process and in stations with connections of two or more Metro lines.
3. Automation: Automation is a key tool for energy saving. A system that all lines should adopt is the installation of intelligent escalators that enter a state of rest while they are not used and are reactivated when they detect a user, as is the case of line 12 of the Metro. Simple measures like these can generate significant energy savings at the stations.
4. Security: Modern communication technologies keep operators and security teams connected to act in a timely manner in possible risk situations. It is vital that these systems have power backups so that in case of rains or electrical failures they remain active.
5. Access cards: With the inauguration of Line 12 of the Metro, access cards were implemented to replace traditional tickets. Installing recharging machines - as is the case of the Metrobús - streamlines processes, efficiently manages the income of money and collects valuable information on the use of users.
6. Alarms: Intelligent warning systems such as lights and smoke extractors are indispensable to attend fire emergencies. It is common to hear reports of users finding smoke inside subway cars or stations. These solutions allow you to identify real alerts to control and anticipate any possible emergency.
